How to Fix Yellow-Toned Bleached Hair

We’ve all been there—an at-home hair dyeing session that seemed like a good idea at the time but ended with unexpected yellow or brassy results. Whether it’s due to an impulsive decision or a failed DIY attempt, the frustration of yellow-toned bleached hair is real. But don’t worry, there’s no need to hide under a hat or wait for your hair to grow out. There are simple ways to fix this issue and get your hair back to a more natural, cooler shade.

Why Did My Hair Turn Yellow?

The main reason your hair turns yellow after bleaching is due to underlying pigments in your hair. Darker hair contains warm tones like red and yellow that are harder to lift during bleaching. When you bleach, these warm tones often stay behind, giving your hair that yellowish hue. Additionally, leftover bleach chemicals, minerals, or even hard water can interact with your hair and contribute to an off-color.

But don’t stress! Yellow hair is fixable, and with the right products and techniques, you can restore a cooler, more neutral blonde look.

How to Fix Yellow Bleached Hair

If your hair turned yellow after bleaching, don’t panic—there are several options to correct it. From purple shampoos to professional touch-ups, here are the best ways to fix those unwanted yellow tones.

1. Use Purple Shampoo

One of the quickest and easiest fixes for yellow or brassy hair is purple shampoo. Purple shampoo works by neutralizing yellow tones, as purple sits opposite yellow on the color wheel. By using it, you can tone down the warmth and achieve a more neutral blonde.

To use purple shampoo, simply apply it in the shower as you would any regular shampoo. Lather it in, let it sit for the recommended time on the bottle (usually 3-5 minutes), then rinse it out. Be cautious not to leave it on too long, as leaving it for extended periods may result in a lavender tint.

Some of the best purple shampoos for toning yellow hair include Redken Color Extend Blondage and Biolage ColorLast Purple Shampoo. Both are well-known and trusted in the hair care industry for reducing brassiness and brightening up blonde hair.

2. Bleach It Again

If purple shampoo isn’t quite enough, you can try bleaching your hair again. However, make sure to wait a few days between bleach sessions to avoid over-processing your hair. Keep in mind that bleaching again can be damaging, so it’s essential to use products that protect and nourish your hair during the process.

If you do decide to bleach again, incorporate a bond-building treatment like Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector. Olaplex helps repair the bonds in your hair that are broken during bleaching, keeping your hair healthier throughout the process.

3. Use an Ashy Blonde Hair Dye

If you want a more immediate fix, using an ashy blonde hair dye can effectively neutralize yellow tones. Look for a dye labeled as “ash” or “cool” as these are formulated to combat brassiness and give you a more neutral blonde color.

One option to consider is L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Fade-Defying + Shine Permanent Hair Color in 7A—a dark ash blonde that works well for neutralizing yellow. If you prefer a slightly lighter shade, try L’Oréal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Color in 8.5A for a champagne blonde hue.

Boxed hair dye can be an affordable and effective solution if you’re looking for an easy fix. Don’t be afraid to use it if a professional color session is out of reach.

4. Go Darker

If you’re frustrated with the yellow tones but don’t want to go blonde anymore, it might be time to embrace a darker shade. Going back to brunette or even black will cover the yellow while giving your hair a healthier look. Darker shades are especially great for those who want to protect their hair from further damage, as darker dyes are less harsh on the hair than bleaching.

For a gentle yet effective option, try using Arctic Fox hair dye, which is known for its vibrant colors and gentle formula. You can also look into Manic Panic or Punky Color for other bold, semi-permanent color options.

5. Embrace Bold Colors

Feeling adventurous? If you’re tired of the yellow and want to try something completely different, now might be the time to experiment with fun, bold colors! Bright hues like blue, purple, or pink can completely transform your look while masking any yellow undertones.

These colors are often more forgiving, and many brands, such as Arctic Fox, offer vibrant shades that are non-damaging and long-lasting. Just make sure to perform a strand test before applying the dye to ensure you’re happy with the results.

Final Thoughts

Yellow-toned bleached hair can be frustrating, but with the right products and techniques, it’s possible to correct the color and restore your hair to a more neutral, flattering shade. Whether you choose purple shampoo, a second bleach session, or even a hair dye refresh, there are multiple ways to fix the problem and get your hair looking the way you want. Just remember to take care of your hair along the way and be mindful of the products you’re using to avoid further damage.